Amid the Afghanistan crisis, India has announced a new visa category called e-Emergency X-Misc Visa, to fast track applications from Afghans who wish to leave the Taliban-controlled country.
The Ministry of Home Affairs(MHA) spokesperson had tweeted that it had reviewed visa provisions given the current situation in Afghanistan. A new category of electronic visas was introduced to fast-track the applications for entry into India.
After the Taliban seized the capital, thousands of people were seen trying to exit the nation and have been thronging capital Kabul’s airport. Some even hold onto a military jet as it took off. At least five people died in Monday’s chaos and it is not yet known whether the death occurred by US forces firing or a stampede.
Several videos doing rounds on the internet showing people trying to board the few flights available. They were seen climbing onto the fuselage of some aircraft before take-off. At least two people plunged to their deaths when they tried to leave by clutching onto the wings of the aircraft.
Meanwhile, the Indian government has said that it would facilitate repatriation to India of those who wish to leave Afghanistan, and Hindus and Sikhs from the country will be given priority. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Arindam Bagchi said the government will take all steps to ensure the safety and security of Indian nationals and our interests in Afghanistan.
Recently, India has brought home its ambassador and the embassy staff in Kabul safely in a special air force flight.
Following the withdrawal of US forces, after two decades, the Taliban stormed across Afghanistan capturing all major cities in a matter of days just two weeks. The Taliban’s rapid conquest has predicted fear of crackdown on freedom of speech and human rights, especially women’s rights.